Privacy Policy
Last updated: January 2025
1. Introduction
Welcome to Zentalk. We are committed to protecting your privacy and ensuring that your personal information remains secure. This Privacy Policy explains how Zentalk handles information when you use our decentralized messaging platform.
Zentalk is built on the fundamental principle that private communication is a basic human right. Unlike traditional messaging platforms, Zentalk operates on a decentralized network with end-to-end encryption, meaning we cannot access, read, or store your messages on central servers.
By using Zentalk, you agree to the terms outlined in this Privacy Policy. We encourage you to read this document carefully to understand how we approach privacy differently from conventional messaging services.
2. Information We Collect
Minimal Data Collection: Zentalk is designed to collect as little information as possible. Due to our decentralized architecture, we do not store user messages, contacts, or communication metadata on central servers.
No Personal Data on Servers: Your messages, files, images, and other content are encrypted end-to-end and transmitted directly between users through our decentralized network. We have no technical ability to access this data.
Device-Local Information: Any data necessary for the app to function (such as your encryption keys and contact list) is stored locally on your device and is never transmitted to our servers.
Optional Analytics: If you opt in, we may collect anonymous, aggregated usage statistics to improve our service. This data cannot be used to identify individual users and includes no message content.
3. How We Use Information
The minimal information we may collect is used solely for:
- Operating and maintaining the Zentalk service
- Improving the reliability and performance of our decentralized network
- Developing new features based on aggregated, anonymous usage patterns
- Responding to user support requests when initiated by you
- Complying with legal obligations where applicable
We do not sell, rent, or share any user data with third parties for marketing or advertising purposes. Your privacy is our priority, not a commodity.
4. Data Storage
Decentralized Architecture: Zentalk does not use central servers to store your messages. All communications are routed through our decentralized peer-to-peer network.
End-to-End Encryption: Every message is encrypted on your device before transmission and can only be decrypted by the intended recipient. Even network nodes cannot read your messages.
User-Controlled Data: Your data lives on your device. You have complete control over your information, including the ability to delete all local data at any time.
No Message Logs: We do not maintain logs of message content, sender/recipient pairs, or timestamps. Your communication patterns remain private.
5. Third-Party Services
Zentalk minimizes reliance on third-party services. When third-party services are necessary, we carefully select providers that align with our privacy values.
App Distribution: Zentalk is distributed through app stores (Google Play, Apple App Store). These platforms have their own privacy policies that apply to the download and update process.
No Third-Party Analytics: We do not use third-party analytics or tracking services that could compromise your privacy.
No Advertising Networks: Zentalk does not integrate with advertising networks or share data with advertisers.
6. Your Rights
You have the following rights regarding your data:
- Access: Since your data is stored locally on your device, you have direct access to all your information at all times.
- Deletion: You can delete all local data by uninstalling the app or using the in-app data deletion feature. Since we do not store your data on servers, there is nothing to delete on our end.
- Portability: You can export your data from the app in standard formats for backup or transfer purposes.
- Rectification: You can modify your profile information and settings at any time within the app.
- Objection: You can opt out of any optional data collection through the app settings.
7. Security
Security is at the core of Zentalk's design:
- End-to-End Encryption: All messages are encrypted using state-of-the-art cryptographic protocols. Only you and your intended recipients can read your messages.
- Zero-Knowledge Architecture: Our system is designed so that we have zero knowledge of your message content, even if compelled by legal authorities.
- Local Key Storage: Your encryption keys are generated and stored locally on your device. They are never transmitted to our servers.
- Open Source: Our code is open source, allowing security researchers and the community to verify our security claims.
- Regular Audits: We conduct regular security audits and welcome responsible disclosure of vulnerabilities.
8. Children's Privacy
Zentalk is not intended for use by children under the age of 13. We do not knowingly collect personal information from children under 13. If you are a parent or guardian and believe your child has provided information to us, please contact us so we can take appropriate action.
If you are between 13 and 18 years old, please review this Privacy Policy with your parent or guardian before using Zentalk.
9. Changes to Policy
We may update this Privacy Policy from time to time to reflect changes in our practices or for legal, operational, or regulatory reasons.
When we make significant changes, we will:
- Update the "Last updated" date at the top of this policy
- Notify users through the app with an in-app notification
- For material changes, provide prominent notice before the changes take effect
- Post updates on our website and blog
We encourage you to review this Privacy Policy periodically to stay informed about how we protect your privacy.
10. Contact
If you have any questions, concerns, or requests regarding this Privacy Policy or our privacy practices, please contact us:
We take all privacy concerns seriously and will respond to your inquiries as promptly as possible.